Our Day Trip from Hopkins Village to Placencia: A Perfect Day in Southern Belize

Hopkins Village, located on the coast of the Caribbean Sea in southern Belize, is known for its laid-back Garifuna charm, vibrant culture, and easy access to amazing day trips. If you’re looking to explore beyond Hopkins, Placencia Village is just a short and scenic journey away. This colorful beach town is famous for its white-sand beaches, local art, and seafood restaurants—making it a must-visit destination for travelers staying in Hopkins.

Getting from Hopkins to Placencia

Getting to Placencia from Hopkins is part of the adventure. The most convenient option is booking our private shuttle from Hopkins to Placencia. The ride takes about an hour and follows the scenic Southern Highway, passing through lush jungles, traditional villages, and glimpses of the Caribbean coast.

• Private Shuttle Cost:

  • 2 persons: $90 USD per person

  • 3 or more persons: $80 USD per person

Budget travelers can also opt for the local bus, but note that it's less flexible and not ideal for a full-day experience.

🎒 Travel Tip: Bring your camera, the views on the Southern Highway are stunning!

Placencia Day Trip Itinerary

Here's how we spent our perfect day exploring Placencia Village from Hopkins:

9:00 AM – Depart from Hopkins Village

We set off from Hopkins in our comfortable air-conditioned shuttle with our guide, ready for a full day of exploration.

10:00 AM – Arrive in Placencia & Explore the Famous Sidewalk

Once in Placencia, we walked along the Placencia Sidewalk, dubbed the “World’s Narrowest Main Street.” It’s filled with colorful shops, cozy cafes, handmade souvenirs, and friendly locals. Don’t miss the street art and murals that give this seaside town its charm.

11:30 AM – Beach Time & Pier Visit

Next up: the beach. The Placencia public beach near the municipal pier is perfect for relaxing under the shade of a palm tree or enjoying a swim. We brought beach towels, sunscreen, and a good book for a peaceful moment by the sea.

1:00 PM – Lunch & Sweet Treats

For lunch, we stopped by Barefoot Bar, famous for its seafood, cool cocktails, and beachfront view. Afterward, we headed to Tutti Frutti Gelateria, a local favorite for fresh-made gelato—definitely the best way to beat the afternoon heat!

2:30 PM – Art & Culture Stop

We visited Art n Soul Gallery, one of the top-rated art galleries in Placencia. This charming space showcases a vibrant collection of locally made paintings, handcrafted jewelry, woodwork, and mixed media pieces—all inspired by the natural beauty and cultural richness of Belize. Each piece tells a story, and it’s the perfect place to pick up a meaningful souvenir or gift.

As we continued along the Placencia Sidewalk, we discovered several other small art shops and local boutiques, each offering something unique—from beach-inspired crafts to handwoven textiles. It was a beautiful way to connect with the creative spirit of the village and support local artisans.

3:30 PM - Back to the Village: Returning Home from Placencia to Hopkins

After a sun-drenched day in Placencia, full of beach lounging, gelato indulgence, art gallery stops, and sidewalk strolls; it was time to make our way back home to Hopkins Village. The energy of Placencia always leaves you smiling, but there’s something comforting about returning to the quiet charm of Hopkins.

✅ Placencia Day Trip Tips – What to Know Before You Go

Whether you're traveling from Hopkins Village or staying nearby, these tips will help you enjoy a smooth and memorable day exploring Placencia:

1. Start Early

To make the most of your time, aim to leave Hopkins by 9:00 AM. This gives you a full day to explore Placencia at a relaxed pace, visit key spots, and still be back by sunset.

2. Book a Private Shuttle for Comfort

While buses are cheaper, they’re less frequent and take longer. Booking a private shuttle with Bucket List Tours & Transfers Belize ensures a comfortable, air-conditioned ride with flexible stops for photos or snacks along the way.

3. Bring Cash

Some shops and small eateries in Placencia may not accept cards, especially for small purchases. Bring Belize dollars or USD in small bills for convenience.

4. Wear Comfortable Clothing & Footwear

Placencia is warm and walkable, so lightweight clothes, sunscreen, and comfortable sandals or sneakers are ideal. You’ll be strolling along the famous Placencia Sidewalk, browsing shops, and spending time on the beach.

5. Pack Beach Essentials

Bring a beach towel, bathing suit, sunhat, sunscreen, and a good book if you plan to relax at the beach or pier.

6. Try the Local Flavors

Don’t miss a stop at Tutti Frutti for gelato, enjoy fresh seafood at local restaurants, or sip on a tropical cocktail at Barefoot Bar. Placencia is a foodie's delight.

7. Don’t Miss the Art Galleries

Placencia has a thriving art scene. Be sure to visit Art n Soul Gallery and browse local crafts, paintings, and handmade jewelry. Support local artisans while taking home something beautiful.

8. Charge Your Phone or Camera

There’s a lot to capture—from colorful street scenes and murals to beach sunsets and charming boutique storefronts. Make sure your devices are fully charged before you go.

9. Respect the Local Culture

Placencia is laid-back and friendly. Greet people with a smile, be courteous to vendors, and take time to chat with locals—you'll likely hear some great stories!

Why Take a Day Trip from Hopkins to Placencia?

A day trip to Placencia offers the perfect mix of relaxation, cultural discovery, shopping, and dining. Whether you're strolling the beach, meeting local artists, or simply enjoying the laid-back Caribbean vibe, Placencia is a gem worth exploring.

🌅 Ready for your own day trip to Placencia? Book your shuttle with us at Bucket List Tours & Transfers Belize or WhatsApp +501-615-6874.